Don’t let a ruptured ACL shorten your dog’s career

Don’t let a ruptured ACL shorten your dog’s career


“Out for the season” is often the verdict when your favorite athlete ruptures an anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL. This ligament has an important function in maintaining stability of the knee joint.

Dogs commonly rupture an ACL when they run, jump or twist, especially if they are large or overweight.

When the ACL tears or “pops,” dogs often yelp in pain and hold the leg up. Even a partial tear can result in limping. Although some dogs may gradually start to use the injured limb, don’t be fooled that everything is on the mend. An ACL tear leaves the knee unstable, allowing the bones slide back and forth against each other and causing even more damage. Without treatment, severe arthritis typically develops over time.

In most cases, surgery and weight loss can return your pup to full function, without pain and disability. In no time, Rover will be back in the game.

 

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